Investigating brain inflammation's impact on executive function in bipolar disorder

Neuroinflammation and Executive Function in Bipolar Disorder: A PET-fMRI Study

NIH-funded research Massachusetts General Hospital · NIH-10954718

This study is looking at how inflammation in the brain might impact thinking skills, especially the ability to control impulses, in people with bipolar disorder, and by joining in, you could help us find new ways to improve these skills for better mood management.

Quick facts

Grant typeNIH-funded research
Study typeNIH-funded research
Funding institutionMassachusetts General Hospital NIH-funded
Lab location1 site (Boston, United States)
Project IDNIH-10954718 on NIH RePORTER

What this research studies

This research explores how inflammation in the brain may affect executive functions, particularly inhibitory control, in individuals with bipolar disorder. By using advanced imaging techniques like simultaneous PET-MRI, the study aims to measure glial activation, a marker of brain inflammation, and its relationship to cognitive performance. The goal is to identify potential new treatment targets that could improve executive function in mood disorders. Patients participating in this research may contribute to a better understanding of the neurobiological underpinnings of their condition.

Who could benefit from this research

Good fit: Ideal candidates for this research are individuals aged 21 and older who have been diagnosed with bipolar disorder.

Not a fit: Patients who do not have bipolar disorder or are under 21 years old may not benefit from this research.

Why it matters

Potential benefit: If successful, this research could lead to new treatment strategies that improve cognitive function in patients with bipolar disorder.

How similar studies have performed: Previous research has shown promising results in understanding the role of neuroinflammation in various psychiatric disorders, suggesting that this approach may yield valuable insights.

Where this research is happening

Boston, United States

Researchers

About this research

  1. This is an active NIH-funded research project — typically early-stage science, not a clinical trial accepting patient enrollment.
  2. Some NIH-funded labs run parallel clinical studies or seek volunteers for related work. To check, contact the principal investigator or institution listed above.
  3. For full project details, budget, and progress reports, visit the official NIH RePORTER page below.
Conditions Affective Disorders
Last reviewed 2026-06-15 by the Find a Trial editorial team. Information on this page is for educational purposes and is not medical advice. Always consult qualified healthcare professionals about clinical trial participation.